1 N A MNEA MOEF FOEFAFTEUARTEU|R ET H| ETGH EL EGALNEEARN|E RT H| UFRSI DAY, F E B RUA RY 21, 2 0 2 4
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2024 2 INT’L CUSTOMS DAY & CUSTOMS WEEK 2024 FEATURE • Messages • Articles • Cartoon Illustrations • Creative Art by JCA Employees • Photos • Customs News in Review • Tips for Trade and Travel • And much more... Inside our supplement JAMAICA JOINS customs agencies around the world in celebrating International Customs Week and Customs Day. This observance provides an opportunity for Jamaica Customs to highlight its work and its involvement in connecting Jamaica to the world. In an era where borders often seem distant due to logistical challenges, the Jamaica Customs Agency is breaking barriers and blurring international lines through freight and shipping operations. The agency is a crucial link in globalisation that fosters economic ties and cultural exchanges. The agency plays a pivotal role in enhancing international trade and cooperation and facilitates the seamless movement of goods across borders. You have showcased Brand Jamaica on the world stage by ensuring our Jamaican products reach markets worldwide through efficient customs processes and protocols. In this way, the nation’s unique identity is promoted through expanded economic opportunities for all interested parties. Your commitment to nation-building is evident through the significant contributions to the gross domestic product and its role in sustaining the workforce. Engaging traditional and new partners with a purpose will allow you to educate and reinforce the intent and vision of the agency to attain international acclaim. The nation appreciates your dedication to excellence and your example of good corporate governance. HIS EXCELLENCY THE MOST HONOURABLE SIR PATRICK ALLEN ON, GCMG, CD, KSt.J Governor General We appreciate your dedication to excellence THE JAMAICA Customs Agency (JCA) continues to improve its service delivery in respect of its mandates through enhanced partnerships within Jamaica, the region, and the world. While Jamaica is known mainly for imports, the Government of Jamaica has increased its export of products and by-products loved by our nationals and foreigners alike. As such, trade and improving Jamaica’s competitive advantage in this sphere is of great importance to the Government of Jamaica as we work to guarantee the seamless flow of products and services throughout the borders of the country. Congratulations to the staff and leadership of the agency for ensuring that this remains a reality through their maintained partnerships with regional and global administrations. In this regard, the celebration of Customs Week 2024 takes on added significance as we treat with trade and border security matters at Jamaica Customs. The JCA continues to improve and enhance its skill set and resources to ensure Jamaica is able to detect and deter. Partnering with other local law enforcement entities has aided the JCA’s increased detection and seizure of illicit activities and items while collaborating with international partners on cross-border training and the acquisition of equipment by donations, highlight just some of the ways our international partners have assisted the JCA, and Jamaica, in advancing the goals of Vision 2030 National Development Plan. In achieving its mandates of border protection, trade facilitation and revenue collection the Jamaica Customs Agency has recognised the importance of having the necessary resources to undertake its functions effectively, including human resources and advanced technology. The Government of Jamaica applauds the efforts of the Jamaica Customs Agency which continue to yield tremendous results for the benefit of all. As we commemorate Customs Week 2024, under the International Customs Day theme: ‘Customs Engaging Traditional and New Partners with Purpose’, I urge all stakeholders of the JCA to apply the theme and purposefully build and sustain mutual relations. Happy International Customs Day 2024! THE MOST HON ANDREW HOLNESS, ON, PC, MP Prime Minister Gov’t of Jamaica applauds the efforts of the JCA In an era where borders often seem distant due to logistical challenges, the Jamaica Customs Agency is breaking barriers and blurring international lines through freight and shipping operations.
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2024 3 INT’L CUSTOMS DAY & CUSTOMS WEEK 2024 FEATURE IAM honoured to extend my heartfelt wishes to the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) and its dedicated team on the occasion of International Customs Day 2024. This year, we come together with the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Member States to celebrate under the theme, ‘Customs: Engaging Traditional and New Partners with Purpose’. As we take a moment to reflect on the profound significance of this day, let us recognise the indispensable role that the JCA plays in fortifying our nation’s bonds with the global community. In today’s dynamic landscape, customs agencies stand at the forefront, pivotal in fostering economic resilience, ensuring border security against illicit activities, and facilitating the seamless flow of international trade. The chosen theme, ‘Customs: Engaging Traditional and New Partners with Purpose’, encapsulates the evolving nature of customs operations amid contemporary challenges. It underscores the imperative for customs agencies not only to consolidate partnerships within traditional frameworks but also to proactively engage with emerging allies. In the context of Jamaica as a small island developing state, our reliance on international trade is undeniably pivotal. The JCA, as a cornerstone of our economic infrastructure, holds the key to unlocking myriad opportunities for our nation to emerge as a Global Logistics hub. With anticipation for forthcoming amendments to the Customs Act, I harbour optimism about fortifying the operational effectiveness of the JCA and harnessing its vast potential. To the esteemed management and staff of the JCA, I extend my sincere appreciation for your unwavering commitment to our beloved nation. Your tireless endeavours contribute significantly to the realisation of a modern customs administration, characterised by excellence, compliance, and substantial contributions to our national development and societal protection. I am confident that this legacy of excellence will endure for generations to come. Happy International Customs Day! MARK J. GOLDING, MP Leader of the Opposition Legacy of excellence will endure for generations to come AS IS customary, the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) joins the World Customs Organization (WCO) member countries in celebrating International Customs Day. The theme for 2024, ‘Customs Engaging Traditional and New Partners with Purpose’, comes at an opportune time as we continue to strengthen relationships with our key stakeholders and forge ahead with critical reforms in facilitating trade and travel. Customs agencies have long been viewed as the stewards of a country’s trade and borders – facilitating legitimate trade while protecting nations from threats. Trade accounts for a significant proportion of our gross domestic product and, as a result, the role of the Jamaica Customs Agency is critical in facilitating Jamaica’s business activity and maintaining border security. The mandate of the JCA continues to be supported by the right governance and legislative frameworks. The new Customs Bill, which has already been tabled in Parliament, and its accompanying regulations will further enhance Customs reform and support the delivery of services at the JCA including the introduction of a canine division, body cameras, contactless processing for non-commercial imports, single-window digital document processing, and digital immigration processing. Within the past year, the Jamaica Customs Agency has continued its thrust towards modernisation by investing heavily in the expansion of its digital ecosystem to provide quality public service delivery. Among these initiatives is the development of a new mobile application “JaCustoms Connect” as well as the implementation of its contactless clearance system, to enhance the end-user experience of Customs stakeholders with the entity. These, among other far-reaching digitalisation projects, have enhanced the JCA’s processes and outputs resulting in increased efficiency among various companies and border regulatory agencies, while earning the JCA the prestigious ISO 9001:2015 certification from the National Certification Body of Jamaica (NCBJ). The JCA also continues to strengthen Jamaica’s capabilities in national security and to this end, has gained direct access to the information system of the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL), which will enable the faster sharing of intelligence information in an effort to enhance border protection. Congratulations to the JCA for continuing to execute on its mandates to secure Jamaica’s borders and facilitate business, through the implementation of various strategic initiatives. As you pursue your mission, your investments in promoting a culture of knowledge-sharing and building professional pride continue to reap great dividends through greater efficiency, transparency and high performance. THE HON NIGEL CLARKE, DPhil, MP Minister of Finance and the Public Service Congratulations on continuing to execute your mandates To the esteemed management and staff of the JCA, I extend my sincere appreciation for your unwavering commitment to our beloved nation. Your tireless endeavours contribute significantly to the realisation of a modern customs administration, characterised by excellence, compliance, and substantial contributions to our national development and societal protection. I am confident that this legacy of excellence will endure for generations to come. Congratulations to the JCA for continuing to execute on its mandates to secure Jamaica’s borders and facilitate business, through the implementation of various strategic initiatives. As you pursue your mission, your investments in promoting a culture of knowledge-sharing and building professional pride continue to reap great dividends through greater efficiency, transparency and high performance.
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2024 4 ‘CUSTOMS ENGAGING traditional and New Partners with Purpose’ is the theme for International Customs Day (ICD) 2024. The theme serves to highlight key areas of focus for members of the World Customs Organisation (WCO), and firmly sets their sights on meeting the demands of the current environment by reassessing their engagement strategies with existing and potential partners. This includes making adjustments where necessary, deepening and expanding existing partnerships, forging new alliances and pivoting to meet the needs of Customs in the 21st century. The universal importance of Customs becomes especially evident when examined through the lens of their role in national development. Worldwide, Customs plays a pivotal role in their country’s development, through facilitating legitimate trade, protection of their borders and society and collecting revenue due. The Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) currently collects approximately 38 per cent of Jamaica’s revenue, serving as a linchpin and key enabler in achieving the objectives of the government. Under the auspice of this year’s theme, the WCO has outlined six (6) key calls to action, forming a roadmap for Customs to follow, as new challenges such as rapid advances in technology, environmental and health crises and complex geopolitical shifts coalesce to create an ever-shifting dynamic to keep abreast of. The calls to action include enhancing engagement with traditional partners; forging new partnerships; collaborating with purpose; increasing diversity and inclusivity in engagements; assessing impact and adjusting strategies; and leveraging technology and data. These key cross-cutting areas are all areas that the JCA has placed strategic focus on, and will continue to do so, as the Agency keeps making strides in achieving its objective of being a leading, modern Customs administration. Here’s a look at some of the key initiatives designed to keep our stakeholders in focus, while achieving the objectives of the Agency. ENHANCING TRADITIONAL PARTNERSHIPS & LEVERAGING TECHNOLOGY The JCA, acknowledging the impact that deliberate engagement can have on building awareness, fostering compliance and facilitating legitimate trade, has historically engaged with traditional partners, through various initiatives and modalities that have evolved over time to suit the current environment. Typically, these partners include traders, customs brokers, freight forwarders, couriers, and other border regulatory agencies. While there is no denying the importance of human interaction, Information & Communication Technology (ICT) has featured strongly in how and when the Agency interacts with our stakeholders. These engagements have facilitated a smooth flow of information between the Agency and key stakeholders, while providing a robust feedback mechanism, thus allowing these relationships to flourish. Some of these ICT-related initiatives include: CONTACTLESS CLEARANCE Traditionally clients would be required to go to the port to effect clearance of their barrels and other less than container load (LCL) shipments. This resulted in persistent and frequent complaints about long wait times, congestion, and the complexity of the process. The JCA heard the cries of our clients and developed and implemented “Contactless Clearance” as one of the solutions. This solution allows the clearance of non-commercial LCL shipments without the presence of the importer. This has meant a simpler, hassle-free process for our clients clearing specified types of shipments and eliminates the need for them to be present at the port. It also means greater efficiencies for the JCA, as declarations can be processed in a more uniform and timely manner, thus helping to alleviate backlog. JACUSTOMS CONNECT (JCA MOBILE APP) The JCA’s Mobile App has been developed to facilitate ease of process and information flow from Customs to our clients and vice versa. It facilitates their interaction with Customs in one easy-to-use App, with features such as the Duty Estimator and Track and Trace which provide real time information about their shipments. It also facilitates real-time online payment, taking out the guess work and helping to demystify Customs processes. ELECTRONIC PASSENGER DECLARATION (C5) The JCA and the Passport, Immigration & Citizenship Agency (PICA) have collaborated to develop and implement the Electronic Passenger Declaration, eliminating its paper-based predecessor. There is no longer a need to fill out paper forms, simply complete your passenger declaration form (C5) online at enterjamaica.com, for a faster, smoother and more transparent process. BODY-WORN CAMERAS In a nod to the benefits of technology and the need to have accurate recordings of the Agency’s transactions with our clients, the JCA has introduced the use of bodyworn cameras by Customs officers on the ports and some officers in the Border Protection Unit. The initiative is expected to provide a more accurate record of the encounter with our stakeholders, increase transparency and improve the quality of evidence collected. Mrs Velma Ricketts Walker, CEO/ Commissioner, in underscoring the benefits of the use of body-worn cameras, has noted they will allow the Agency to“fully embrace greater accountability and transparency in our operations, interactions and engagements with our importing and exporting public, as well as our passengers,” thereby helping to build public trust. AUTOMATED SYSTEM FOR CUSTOMS DATA (ASYCUDA WORLD) ASYCUDA is the JCA’s automated system for Customs data which allows traders and/or their authorised agents to submit import and export declarations, manifests and pay online. While it is not a new initiative, the agency continues to maintain and expand our functionalities to meet the needs of both internal and external clients. JAMAICA SINGLE WINDOW FOR TRADE (JSWIFT) JSWIFT is an electronic platform (web-based portal), which allows traders to submit transactional information through a single access point. It provides support for regulatory requirements for cross border trade in Jamaica, allowing for the electronic application for licences, permits, certificates and other regulatory requirements and their processing by the relevant cross-border JAMAICA CUSTOMS: ‘ENGAGING TRADITIONAL AND NEW PARTNERS WITH PURPOSE’ INT’L CUSTOMS DAY & CUSTOMS WEEK 2024 FEATURE
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2024 5 regulatory authorities (CBRAs). The initiative has been well received, as it has reduced transaction time and cost, no longer requiring travelling between CBRAs and Customs to facilitate processing. To date, ten (10) CBRAs have been onboarded. RETURNING RESIDENTS’ ONLINE PORTAL The JCA is cognisant of the challenges that can be presented by the varied geographical location of our clients globally, and their need to access Customs information and personnel. To this end the Agency has delivered a worthy solution in the form of our Returning Residents’ Online Portal. The Portal allows clients to register and apply for their returning residents’ entitlement, even while overseas via the Agency’s website at www.jacustoms.gov.jm. ONLINE VALUATION VERIFICATION & LIVE CHAT SERVICES The Online Valuation Verification Service is another of the JCA’s innovative solutions aimed at allowing better communication and flow of information with our clients. It allows the client to settle their valuation concerns and is facilitated through the Agency’s Live Chat Service via www.jacustoms.gov.jm. INCREASING DIVERSITY AND INCLUSIVITY THROUGH EFFECTIVE USE OF SOCIAL AND TRADITIONAL MEDIA The JCA serves not only our traditional importing and exporting community, but rather the entire nation of Jamaica. Bearing this in mind, the Agency has undertaken a number of initiatives utilising traditional media, such as our radio feature “Inside Customs”, but has scanned the current environment and recognised the need for diversification. This has resulted in increased use of social media and other online forums to reach our customers where they are. The Agency now employs the use of a YouTube Channel, ‘X’ (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn and Instagram. This is in a bid to ensure that we not only provide information through various channels, but to also enable us to hear from a wide range of voices and perspectives, so that our strategies are aligned to the various persons we serve. Our stakeholders are able to take advantage of live features on‘X’with “Talk Wid Customs” and our online podcast “Real Talk with Customs”, where the Agency addresses new and topical areas of interest to our stakeholders, such as trading under free trade agreements, Contactless Clearance, risk management and border protection. The Agency has also successfully launched and hosted multiple sessions of our “Click, Connect and Converse with Customs” ‘Triple C’ Online Public Engagement Series, leveraging technology to reach stakeholders wherever they are, allowing them the opportunity to talk with us about their concerns. The most recent forum was held in November 2023, which addressed JCA’s Contactless Clearance Process, and the Customs Mobile App, both of which are new initiatives of the Agency. ASSESSING IMPACT, ADJUSTING STRATEGIES & COLLABORATING WITH PURPOSE As a part of our strategy, and as a key proponent of our nation’s development and protection, the JCA continuously scans our environment to assess the impact our processes and initiatives are having on our desired outcomes and our stakeholders. It also allows the Agency to adopt a flexible approach and pivot as necessary, adjusting our strategies to meet our objectives of trade facilitation, protection of our borders and society and collection of revenue due. In this regard, the Agency has long-standing initiatives that continue to work effectively and has also adopted new ones to suit the emerging needs of the agency and our stakeholders. QUALITY ASSURANCE COMMITTEE One of the strategies used by the Agency to effectively enhance our relationship with the private sector and other Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) is the hosting of a monthly Quality Assurance Committee (QAC) meeting. The committee is comprised of representatives from the private sector, including customs brokers, warehouse operators, shipping agents and various associations, trade related MDAs and the JCA. It provides an opportunity for open dialogue not only between the committee members and Customs but also among themselves. It serves to improve transparency and accountability and enhances the quality of service delivered to stakeholders. CUSTOMS BUSINESS INTERACTION (CBI) The CBI is one of the Agency’s newest initiatives aimed at strengthening business relations between the JCA and commercial/ industrial stakeholders. The initiative is spearheaded by the office of the Chief Executive Officer and facilitates the interaction of the CEO and her team with executives of the business community through face-to-face meetings and site visits. This allows the Commissioner to see the business’ operations firsthand, discuss their operations and to impart relevant information about Customs. This innovative initiative has been warmly received by the business community who have expressed their appreciation and cited huge improvements in their interactions with the Agency. Some of the companies which have benefited from the CBI include: Coldfield Manufacturing Company Limited in Kingston, Walkerswood Jerk Facility in St Ann, and Rainforest Seafood in Montego Bay, who also had high praises for the Agency’s Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme. JCA STAKEHOLDER AWARDS CEREMONY The JCA has been the recipient of many awards from their various stakeholders, in acknowledgement of the quality service they have received, however in a reversal of roles in May 2023, the Agency hosted our inaugural Stakeholder Appreciation Awards Ceremony. The ceremony celebrated the relationships between the JCA and our various stakeholders and gave recognition PLEASE SEE PARTNERS, 6 INT’L CUSTOMS DAY & CUSTOMS WEEK 2024 FEATURE
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2024 6 to the stellar contributions from the awardees. This was another initiative that was well-received and served to enhance the Customsto-business relations of the JCA, as it fostered an environment of trust and appreciation. PURPOSEFUL BORDER PROTECTION COLLABORATIONS A key mandate of the JCA is that of protecting our nation’s borders. To achieve this mandate, the JCA has engaged in numerous operations and initiatives with various arms of law enforcement and other MDAs, adopting a “whole of government” and collaborative approach. This type of engagement has proven to be effective, allowing for sharing of various resources and best practices. The Agency’s engagements will continue and will adapt as necessary to suit the fast-changing environment in which criminal elements operate. In this vein, the JCA and the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will grant both entities access to INTERPOL’s pool of global criminal data and access to records of 195 countries globally. Commissioner Ricketts Walker highlighted the Agency’s thrust at the signing of the MOU, stating “access to these systems will strengthen the Customs intelligence and risk-based targeting approach, which is crucial to preventing crimes related to cross-border trade”. She also emphasised the purposefulness of the partnership with the JCF, noting that the JCA’s longstanding partnership with the JCF has proven to be mutually beneficial, and highlighted the need to continue the collaboration as it will serve to provide far greater results in stemming organised and transnational crimes. The JCA also continues to collaborate with the WCO and its Members to build capacity and share best practices, through the use and development of targeted Customs tools and instruments, and shared intelligence and data, in a bid to strengthen its response to border threats. One instance of this is the recent workshop that the JCA participated in, which was facilitated by the WCO for the Agency in August 2023 on risk management, one of the driving principles of the Agency. MODERNISATION OF CUSTOMS LEGISLATION As a part of our modernisation efforts, and in response to feedback from the Agency’s stakeholders, the JCA is in the process of repealing and replacing the Customs Act, 1941. During this process the Agency has been very purposeful in our engagements with our many stakeholders and has afforded them an opportunity to provide their feedback via robust consultative sessions. The process has been successful thus far, reflecting a Customs Act that represents both Customs and our stakeholders. The Bill is currently before the Houses of Parliament. COMMITMENT TO CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT As a signal of the JCA’s commitment to quality and continuous improvement, to both our internal and external stakeholders, the Agency embarked on an ambitious bid to attain ISO 9001: 2015 Quality Management Systems certification. The journey was a challenging but fruitful one, which saw the JCA engaging with our stakeholders in new and improved ways, demanding improvements in decision making strategies, procedures and processes, including communication protocols and stakeholder management. On April 18, 2023, the JCA became the first Englishspeaking Customs administration to receive this prestigious international accreditation. The JCA views engagement with all our stakeholders as being critical to achieving our mandates. The Agency, as demonstrated by our ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Systems accreditation, along with other numerous initiatives, is dedicated to continuously reassessing our stakeholder engagement strategies and quickly adapting to meet the demands of our ever-evolving landscape, to ensure they remain effective and relevant. We are committed to optimising Custom-to-Business partnerships and actioning relevant feedback. As a key enabler of national development, and protector of our borders, the Agency is dedicated to playing our role in helping Jamaica become “the place of choice to live, work, raise families and do business.” INT’L CUSTOMS DAY & CUSTOMS WEEK 2024 FEATURE
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2024 7 INT’L CUSTOMS DAY & CUSTOMS WEEK 2024 FEATURE
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2024 8 THE JAMAICA Customs Agency (JCA), along with other world Customs organisations, observe International Customs Day on January 26, 2024, under the theme ‘Customs Engaging Traditional and New Partners with Purpose’. The JCA has the vision of being a modern Customs administration, delivering excellent service, fostering compliance, and contributing to our national development and the protection of our society. To accomplish this, JCA is required to collaborate purposefully with businesses, government agencies and other stakeholders locally, regionally, and internationally to ensure regulations, policies and programmes effectively respond to the constantly changing environment. This requires a framework of regular consultation and engagement with traditional and new partners, using traditional and new methods. In the context of increasing pressures for more reliable and faster movement of goods at the lowest possible cost, without compromising Jamaica’s border security and revenue collection or JCA’s core values and enforcement responsibilities, the Jamaica Customs Agency has been focused on processes to increase the volumes of cargo with reduced reliance on physical intervention. These are centred on modernising and simplifying trade procedures while maintaining efficiency. The agency’s thrust with the Jamaica Single Window for Trade (JSWIFT), a one-stop electronic portal for importers and exporters, to satisfy all import and export regulatory requirements by submitting these at a single point of contact and, more recently, the introduction of the Contactless Clearance Process, are evidence of this. The Contactless Clearance Process is aimed at modernising the physical inspection process, making it easier for non-commercial importers to clear cargo and for customs officers to conduct inspections in a controlled, sterile and secure environment, without the need for importers having to physically visit the ports and public bonded warehouses for Customs inspection. The agency must have ongoing feedback from all stakeholders to continue identifying the gaps, and improvements required, to produce the desired strategic outcomes and enable it to engage with the relevant government ministries and agencies, with a view to recommending changes to policies and, ultimately, legislation to address these. This culture of cooperation and communication builds trust and respect and enhances voluntary compliance. I take this opportunity to thank the members of staff of the Jamaica Customs Agency, under the leadership of CEO/Commissioner Velma Ricketts Walker and her deputies, for the ongoing efforts they make to facilitate trade, protect Jamaica’s borders, and optimise revenue collection, and encourage them to continue to do so in a manner that is fair, transparent and purposeful. GINA PHILLIPPS BLACK Chairman, JCA Advisory Board Continue to be fair, transparent and purposeful INT’L CUSTOMS DAY & CUSTOMS WEEK 2024 FEATURE
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2024 9 THE JAMAICA Customs Agency (JCA) is delighted to partner with other Customs administrations globally in celebrating International Customs Day 2024, as it offers Customs an opportunity to bring its work into greater focus. This year’s theme, ‘Customs Engaging Traditional and New Partners with Purpose’, challenges Customs administrations to not only sustain traditional partnerships, but also to engage with new and emerging partners as we continue to navigate within a dynamic and ever-changing global environment. The JCA fully recognises the importance of staying abreast of these changes, by sustaining current partnerships and embracing new partners, in order to ensure continued optimal performance, in keeping with global trends and standards. The agency has consistently benefited from varying partnerships – traditional and new – which have resulted in improved efficiency, enhanced information exchange, and increased coordinated border management and operational processes, and further collaboration on various initiatives. All these are undertaken in order to provide excellent Customs services. So, what does purposeful partnership mean for the Jamaica Customs Agency? For Jamaica Customs, building and sustaining mutually beneficial partnerships involve engagement, communication, collaboration, accountability, adaptation and commitment; we appreciate such partnerships, which, over the years, have contributed to the agency’s fulfilment of its core mandates of trade facilitation, border protection and revenue collection. We are aware that supporting and sustaining an efficient trade, logistics and a secure supply chain, as well as cohesive border management require the effective engagement of people and the collaboration of systems and processes. This can only be achieved through the building and sustenance of strategic partnerships with our relevant stakeholders. For us, the essence of partnership is people-centred. As a service-driven entity, certified in ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System, the JCA places people – our employees and stakeholders – at the centre of our operations. It is people that drive partnerships. To this end, we pride ourselves in executing robust stakeholder engagements, and maintaining effective communication and connection with our The JCA places great value on forging, fostering and enhancing strong partnerships PLEASE SEE VALUE, 10 INT’L CUSTOMS DAY & CUSTOMS WEEK 2024 FEATURE
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2024 10 partners, guided by our core values: customer-focused, accountability, professionalism, integrity, and transparency (CAPIT, as it is popular known by our stakeholders). We also place great value on fostering and enhancing strong partnerships through technological advancements. The interweaving of technological Customs systems, such as ASYCUDA World, the Port Community System and the Jamaica Single Window for Trade (JSWIFT), are practical examples of what technological driven partnerships can do in improving processes for government entities (such as border regulatory agencies), traders, businesses, industry partners and our citizens. We place great value on partnering with our local business sector and their associations, such the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce and the Jamaica Manufacturers’ and Exporters’ Association. We also look forward to partnering with other sectors, including academia. It is through the assistance of various partnerships that the agency achieved significant milestones in 2023, which served to solidify our position as a model Customs administration and government agency. Some of these achievements included: advancement of our staff welfare and development programmes; development of our Compliance Strategy and Plan; implementation of several stakeholder-driven programmes, including the hosting of our inaugural stakeholder awards ceremony; and the introduction of body-worn cameras for Customs Officers. Additionally, our Contactless Clearance Process and Customs Mobile app, JaCustoms Connect, have offered businesses, traders, industry partners and our citizens a more efficient way of transacting business with the agency. It is also through partnerships that, along with the Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency, and other partners, we undertook the implementation of the Electronic Immigration/ Customs Declaration Form for incoming passengers at the airports. The forging of mutual partnerships have contributed significantly to the continued success of the agency. We have deepened relations with local, regional, and international law-enforcement partners, thus strengthening our capability to effectively disrupt criminal networks. In this regard, our engagements with local and international partners have led to, among other things, Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) with Crime Stop Jamaica and the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s INTERPOL National Central Bureau for Jamaica for the sharing of information. In furtherance of our regional and international partnerships, we maintained close relations with the World Customs Organisation, the Caribbean Customs Law Enforcement Council, CARICOM’s Implementing Agency for Crime and Security and its Joint Regional Communication Centre, as well as several international liaisons through various governments’ embassies and high commissions (to include France, the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Canada, the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of Korea). These partnerships have fostered critical engagements resulting in capacity-building, donation of equipment, operational intelligence, risk-management and trade facilitation initiatives. As the global landscape, trade and travel evolve, the Jamaica Customs Agency remains committed to sustaining traditional partnerships, while creating avenues for engaging new and evolving partners, as well as capitalising on opportunities with emerging partners that will enhance our capability to further grow, innovate, modernise, transform and deliver quality service, in keeping with national and international requirements. As we continue in 2024 and beyond, our resolve is to continue partnering with you, with purpose. VELMA RICKETTS WALKER, JP CEO/Commissioner of Customs INT’L CUSTOMS DAY & CUSTOMS WEEK 2024 FEATURE
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2024 1 THE PORT Authority of Jamaica (PAJ/Authority) and the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) have for years, shared a long-standing collaborative relationship and strong partnership, mutually beneficial to both entities. Accordingly, on behalf of the PAJ it is a great privilege to join the JCA in celebrating International Customs Day. The partnership between the organisations has proven to be essential to the advancement of Jamaica’s maritime industry. The Authority remains committed to working closely with the JCA and continues to support the implementation of innovative and modern measures to ensure the sustainability of port operations. It is important for us to pursue a proactive approach to ensure effective port management, mitigate, and control risks. Investment in modern technology to enhance security systems and improve business process management has been a priority for both PAJ and the JCA. The PAJ’s Port Community System (PCS) in collaboration with JCA’s ASYCUDA World have successfully addressed scheduling concerns and congestion challenges at our ports. Over the last year, the PCS has made several improvements to facilitate efficient port operations and related activities. These include the enhancement of the Maritime Export module, integration of the PCS Truck Appointment System with Kingston Freeport Terminal Limited’s terminal operating system, the implementation of a solution to the multiflight voyages for the onboarding of cargo airlines into the PCS and the acquisition of the AnyDesk Solution. These initiatives resulted in an improvement of service delivery to the users of the PCS platform. The Cruise Shipping Industry is a key business segment for the Authority. Across Jamaica’s five cruise ports, the JCA plays an integral role in the seamless processing of over a million cruise passengers annually. This ensures that the cruise passenger experience is favourable from the onset. Despite the challenges within the sector in the last few years, Jamaica has maintained its position as the World’s Leading Cruise destination, which has been possible with the critical support from the JCA. We look forward to enriching the partnership with the JCA and other key stakeholders to maintain Jamaica’s position within the industry. As the Maritime Industry continues to evolve, the Authority is committed to supporting the initiatives of the JCA to further improve efficiency, expand capacities and strengthen border security. Finally, the PAJ commends the JCA for their dedication to providing premier services across Jamaica’s ports which foster economic development. PROF GORDON SHIRLEY, OJ President & Chief Executive Officer The Port Authority of Jamaica PAJ commends JCA for dedication to providing premier services across ports INT’L CUSTOMS DAY & CUSTOMS WEEK 2024 FEATURE
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2024 12 THE SHIPPING Association of Jamaica (SAJ) brings warm greetings to the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) on International Customs Day, commemorating the contributions of customs organisations worldwide. This year’s theme,‘Customs engaging traditional and new partners with purpose’, acknowledges the changes occurring in global trade and the collaborative efforts required by stakeholders in the logistics supply chain. In the dynamic world of global trade, the roles of different players in the logistics supply chain are so intricately interwoven that it appears seamless to the recipients of goods and services. In reality, numerous professionals are working together to facilitate the movement of cargo between distant locations, like Jamaica and China. We do this while catering to diverse needs, such as an online client requiring a replacement computer part or a local supplier transporting large bulk shipments such as bananas. The role of customs is crucial to this process of trade, and the SAJ commends the JCA for its commitment to modernisation, embracing innovative solutions that enhance efficiency and facilitate smoother trade operations. The implementation of the Jamaica Trade Information Portal, the Jamaica Single Window for Trade (JSWIFT), and the Contactless Clearance Process reflects a forward-thinking approach that aligns with the demands of the contemporary trade landscape. These initiatives not only streamline processes but also contribute significantly to reducing barriers and promoting a more user-friendly experience for businesses engaged in international trade. Over its 85 years of history, the SAJ has worked closely with Government agencies, including the Jamaica Customs Agency, to promote sustainability and growth in the shipping industry and the entire economy. This shared objective forms the basis for strategic partnership among public and private sector bodies and is integral to our success as a nation, and so we treasure the relationship we have forged with the Jamaica Customs Agency and to which both parties are committed. As we celebrate International Customs Day, let us take a moment to recognise the collective achievements and the pivotal role played by organisations like the JCA in fostering a collaborative and purposeful approach to customs operations. May our continued partnership lead to even greater advancements in our logistics supply chain, promoting seamless trade that benefits businesses and all Jamaicans. Wishing you a successful and fulfilling International Customs Day celebration. CORAH ANN ROBERTSON-SYLVESTER President Shipping Association of Jamaica May our continued partnership lead to even greater advancements in our logistics supply chain INT’L CUSTOMS DAY & CUSTOMS WEEK 2024 FEATURE
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2024 13 THE JAMAICA Single Window for Trade (JSWIFT) is a Government of Jamaica (GOJ) initiative aimed at simplifying and streamlining cross-border trade regulatory processes in Jamaica. A Trade Single Window is a system designed to facilitate international trade by providing a centralised platform for submitting and processing trade-related documents and information. The concept of a single window system involves creating a one-stop shop for all import, export, and transit-related regulatory requirements. This helps to reduce the time and costs associated with trade transactions, improve efficiency, and enhance collaboration among various government agencies involved in trade facilitation. The JSWIFT was developed to improve the ease of doing business and enhance the country’s competitiveness in the global market. It is expected to bring together all relevant stakeholders, including customs, port authorities, regulatory agencies, and the business community, to exchange trade-related information electronically through a single platform. The team at JSWIFT in collaboration with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and our valued stakeholders continues on its mandate to simplify, digitise, and improve the cross-border trade services offered. The implementation has realised the delivery of over seventy-two (72) import and export services for the processing and issuance of licences, permits, certificates, and other documents (LPCOs) across the ten (10) Partner Government Agencies (PGA) already on-boarded onto the platform. With an additional ten (10) agencies remaining to be on-boarded, the trade community will continue to benefit from the efficiencies gained using the JSWIFT single transaction point. In the ongoing project, training and awareness initiatives are progressing well, targeting end-users from both the Public and Private Sectors. In 2023, collaborative engagements with the Jamaica Civil Service Association (JCSA), Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA), Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), and eGov Jamaica Limited (eGovJa) have contributed to these efforts. During 2023, the primary focus was on training our stakeholders and end-users for the onboarding of services related to the Veterinary Services Division – Veterinary Export Health Certificate for Fish and Fishery Products, the Jamaica Customs Agency – Customs Broker Licensing, and the Hazardous Substances Regulatory Authority – Import and Re-Export of Hazardous Commodities. Virtual modalities, including YouTube and e-Learning platforms, are being utilised for training and sensitisation. To date, there are thirty-eight (38) videos available on our Learning JSWIFT YouTube Channel, nine (9) training courses on our eLearning platform (www.learning.jswift.gov.jm) and the JSWIFT Training Portal (www. training.jswift.gov.jm) is always readily available for all our users to familiarise themselves with our various service offerings. AS OF JANUARY 22, 2024, JSWIFT HAS ACHIEVED SIGNIFICANT MILESTONES: Ten Partner Government Agencies have been successfully on-boarded. The platform offers 72 Import and Export Services. A total of 8,489 users are registered on JSWIFT. The platform has processed 3,475 licences, 162,177 permits, and 9,517 certificates. The JSWIFT has successfully processed 185,594 payments, collecting a total of $2,101,503,094.63 in transaction fees for various PGAs. The JSWIFT has successfully onboarded a diverse range of services for various agencies, including the Trade Board Limited (TBL), Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA), Plant Quarantine Produce Inspection Branch (PQPIB), Jamaica Agricultural Commodities Regulatory Authority (JACRA), Pesticides Control Authority (PCA), Veterinary Services Division (VSD), Firearm Licensing Authority (FLA), Sugar Industry Authority (SIA), Jamaica Dairy Development Board (JDDB), and the Hazardous Substances Regulatory Authority (HSRA). The JSWIFT plans to onboard additional agencies, including the Pharmaceutical and Regulatory Affairs Branch (PRAB), National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA), Ministry of National Security (MNS), Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade JSWIFT – Positively impacting Jamaica’s trade and business landscape PLEASE SEE JSWIFT, 14 INT’L CUSTOMS DAY & CUSTOMS WEEK 2024 FEATURE (Tamara Archer Reid is an employee of the JCA, HRM&D Division)
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2024 14 Harmony Spanning Horizons: Jamaica Customs’ Purposeful Dance By Crystal Cunningham (MFAFT), National Compliance and Regulatory Authority (NCRA), and the Spectrum Management Authority (SMA). These upcoming agencies will further expand the reach and capabilities of the JSWIFT platform. JSWIFT Phase two outlines comprehensive plans for the future in its ongoing commitment to enhance trade facilitation. Key elements of the plan include: • The completion of remaining import and export services for the remaining Partner Government Agencies. • Various improvements such as enhanced system response times, further reductions in LPCO processing times and software bugs. • The recruitment of additional human resources, ongoing capacity-building efforts, change management initiatives, and continued stakeholder sensitisation and training. • Refinements to standard operating procedures, system enhancements, infrastructure improvements, and upgrades to e-payment services. • Acceptance of Jamaica’s Central Bank Digital Currency (JAM-DEX) as a means of payment. • Improvements to the transfer services between JSWIFT and ASYCUDA • Upgrades to identity validation services, • Integration with the National Business Portal (NBP) and other key government trade-related services. Importantly, the focus on full compliance with data protection practices and guidelines is integral to current and future initiatives. For information requests, submit inquiries to info@jswift.gov.jm. Users and stakeholders seeking assistance with JSWIFT platform services can contact the JSWIFT Client Services Team at support@ jswift.gov.jm or by phone at (876) 750-3050, (876) 750-3096-7. At the heart of our little island, where ocean kisses shore, The Jamaica Customs Agency engineers a dance, a tale of wonder. Embracing partners, traditional, new, and from afar, A purposeful dance beneath the island’s guiding star. Under the tropic sun, traditions stand firm, A mix of history and pride, a cultural pursuit, With reggae beats and tales to tell, the island’s story shared, A weaved tapestry of culture, where old and new merges. With determination as their chant, Customs stands with strength, Preserver of the gateway, embracing heritage’s shine, In the echoes of our ancestors and the rhythmic beat, Jamaica’s legacy lays bare, a dance yet to be done. On this global stage, new partners join the fray, With innovators and collaborators leading the way, Technology and advancement in the spotlight, bold and bright, The JCA embraces, a narrative yet to be told. The pound of the island’s heart in each transaction’s beat, Tradition and modernity, in consonance they meet. With purpose as their guide, navigating far and wide, Captivating international partners, side by side. Solidarity in diversity, a melody divine, The JCA and partners in a global rhyme The dance transforms, an ever-shifting design, Celebrating unity, stitched into every line. In this pulsating journey, where traditions entwine, The Jamaica Customs Agency, a beacon so bright With resolution in their dance, a global symmetry, An indication of strength, where Jamaica’s indomitable spirit is unrestrained. (Crystal Cunningham is an employee of the JCA, Office Services Branch) JSWIFT CONTINUED FROM 13 INT’L CUSTOMS DAY & CUSTOMS WEEK 2024 FEATURE
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2024 15 THE EVOLVING face of business and international trade continues to challenge traditional mindsets and practice in Customs Administrations the world over, as the dynamics of an increasingly sophisticated global supply chain create new demands for greater efficiency and cutting-edge technology applications. Businesses want their goods moved faster and at reduced costs. Customs Administrations are required to process increasing volumes of cargo at the ‘speed of business’ without compromising security and enforcement responsibilities. Jamaica’s Customs Brokers, professional business people who operate at the nexus of commercial businesses and the Jamaica Customs Agency, understand the value of healthy Customs-Business partnerships in our professional practice. The basis of the CBFFAJ’s advocacy on behalf of our hundreds of members and business clients, is for smooth customs clearance transactions, underpinned and enhanced by coherent and fair Customs policies and procedures at all our ports of entry and exit. As Jamaica joins the global Customs community to consider how to engage traditional and new partners with purpose, it is important that these engagements be pursued in deliberate and practical ways. One such consideration is the implementation of capacity-building programmes by the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) for emerging e-commerce traders and other infant businesses on the rudiments of the Customs Administration and Clearance processes. This approach would allow these traders to benefit from trade facilitation tools offered, such as the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, which aligns with the Government of Jamaica’s drive for greater business innovation, export growth and earnings. The CBFFAJ stands ready to support such an initiative, which would go a long way to cultivate and sustain critical Customs-business partnerships to achieve our mutual goals and successful outcomes. We are pleased to offer our congratulations and best wishes to the leadership, management and staff of the JCA on the occasion of International Customs Day and Customs Week. CLIVE W. COKE President Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Association of Jamaica Congratulations to the leadership, management and staff of the JCA As Jamaica joins the global Customs community to consider how to engage traditional and new partners with purpose, it is important that these engagements be pursued in deliberate and practical ways. INT’L CUSTOMS DAY & CUSTOMS WEEK 2024 FEATURE
jamaica-gleaner.comRkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTUzNTI=